Pánsá Pánsá Podcast

Dr. Mercedes J. Okosi practices at Columbia Health, and she joined the department in 2023. She specializes in individual and group therapy for students presenting with various diagnoses and engages in campus outreach initiatives. Dr. Okosi worked with college students experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, and adjustment issues. She provided individual and family therapy to high school students. She also provided therapy, developed socioemotional school interventions in Newark, and engaged in motivational interviewing for previously incarcerated college students. 

She has prior experience in providing psychotherapy to women experiencing trauma, substance abuse, and mood disorders and working with individuals with mood disorders, personality disorders, grief, trauma, substance abuse, and severe mental illness in both general outpatient and inpatient populations at New York City hospitals. She also became competent at facilitating both skills-focused and process groups. 

Dr. Okosi studied Applied Psychology at the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development at New York University. Unlike a traditional psychology degree, this developmental and sociocultural-focused program immersed her in foundational psychological knowledge and fieldwork opportunities to engage in clinical practice with marginalized populations in the city. Her fieldwork involved working with adolescents and young adults in a nonprofit setting dealing with mental illness, extreme poverty, immigration difficulties, and a host of other psychosocial burdens. Dr. Okosi extended herself to internships and part-time work throughout her undergraduate career to gain experience in areas including HIV+, substance abuse, and severe mental illness.

Dr. Okosi received her Psy.D. in clinical psychology at Rutgers University and completed a doctoral internship at Mount Sinai St. Luke's and West Hospitals. Dr. Okosi is a bilingual (English/Spanish) New York State licensed clinical psychologist. Dr. Okosi is the clinical director of the Safe Mothers, Safe Children Initiative at NYU and owner of the private practice Growth Work Psychology Services PLLC, where she specializes in trauma. Dr. Okosi's research is at the intersection of trauma, identity, and social justice.

During our conversation, Dr. Okosi shared personal and professional insights into her therapy field. We discussed her rich multicultural background as a daughter of a Nigerian father and African American mother. We talked about how these two heritages shaped her childhood and navigating her career choice.  Dr. Okosi offered a unique perspective on the challenges that immigrant communities face when it comes to mental health. We dived into both the stigma and the lack of awareness of mental health within immigrants' communities and other people of color. We further discussed the vital role that cultural understanding and education play in overcoming these barriers. We discussed cultural competence's role in therapy and what steps to take to ensure providers are sensitive to cultural differences in their practices. In conclusion, change is possible when we continue to have these critical conversations and create spaces where mental health is essential to overall well-being, no matter where we come from.

In this thought-provoking episode of the Pansa Pansa Forum, I sat down with Nigerian-born clinical psychologist and public intellectual Dr. Bayo Akomolafe for a profound exploration of mental health, culture, spirituality, and belonging within African immigrant communities.

I first encountered Dr. Akomolafe through a Facebook announcement for a seminar he was preparing for therapists titled "Where Do We Go When Healing Becomes Ill? Navigating the Empire of Trauma." After exploring his work and remarkable life journey, I was deeply inspired by his unique approach to psychology, healing, and social transformation. I reached out to invite him to a conversation, and I was honored when he graciously accepted.

Together, we examine how African traditional belief systems shape perceptions of mental illness and well-being, both on the continent and within the African diaspora. Dr. Akomolafe challenges conventional assumptions about trauma, healing, addiction, grief, and therapy, encouraging us to consider how culture, history, community, and spirituality influence our understanding of mental health.

This conversation explores the limitations of exclusively Western approaches to therapy and asks whether healing might require deeper engagement with indigenous knowledge systems, communal practices, and alternative ways of understanding suffering and transformation.

Whether you are an immigrant, therapist, educator, community leader, or simply someone interested in the intersection of culture and mental health, this episode offers valuable insights into how we care for ourselves and one another in an increasingly complex world.

Topics discussed include:

• African immigrant mental health
• Traditional African spirituality and healing
• Cultural perceptions of mental illness
• Trauma and collective grief
• Indigenous knowledge systems
• Community-based approaches to well-being
• Addiction and social repression
• Mental health awareness in the African diaspora
• The politics of therapy and healing
• Integrating traditional wisdom with modern psychology

Key Takeaways:

Mental health is deeply shaped by culture and community.African traditional beliefs offer alternative frameworks for understanding suffering.Grief is often a collective rather than individual experience.Healing extends beyond the individual and includes family and community.Western psychology does not have a monopoly on mental health knowledge.Therapists must understand the cultural realities of immigrant populations.Addiction can reflect broader social and political conditions.Indigenous wisdom traditions remain relevant in contemporary mental health practice.African immigrant communities need culturally responsive mental health services.True healing may require rethinking the assumptions behind modern therapeutic systems.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Pansa Pansa Forum

01:21 Meet Dr. Bayo Akomolafe

02:48 Exploring Mental Health in African Communities

07:09 Cultural Perspectives on Mental Illness

11:00 The Politics of Mental Health

15:22 Integrating Traditional and Modern Therapies

21:36 Global Perspectives on Wellness

27:20 Traditional Beliefs and Mental Health in the Diaspora

33:01 Navigating Therapy for African Immigrants

40:07 The Role of Psychiatrists and Medication

44:57 Integrating African Practices with Western Mental Health

For further information

www.bayoakomolafe.net

www.emergencenetwork.org

#BayoAkomolafe #MentalHealth #AfricanImmigrants #AfricanDiaspora #Psychology #TraumaHealing #Therapy #AfricanCulture #Healing #MentalWellness #ImmigrantExperience #Spirituality #CommunityHealing #MentalHealthAwareness #CulturalIdentity #IndigenousWisdom #AfricanPsychology #DiasporaVoices #PansaPansaForum #Belonging

Historically, many African immigrants anticipated retiring in their respective countries of origin, and cultural bonding, familiarities, and memorable history of home usually draw this. However, the realities are more complex than anticipated, and the factors contributing to this complexity include lack of quality health care, the standard of living, and other realistic issues that may be challenging to achieve such a dream. As immigrants, planning for a future that balances the expectations and reality of aging is crucial. We must ensure that we have solid financial and health security for ourselves and our families. Such a concrete plan would not only safeguard our well-being, but it would secure a stable foundation for our children. We can avoid burdening our children or settling for a poor healthcare system with limited coverage. Mrs. Martina Asong and Mrs Ifeyinwa Dimoriaku are experts in this field to educate our community about this topic. Both guests are financial professionals working with World System Builder. A company that is dedicated to helping people build financial foundations.           

Summary:

This episode features African immigrant insurance agents sharing insights on health and life insurance, financial literacy, and navigating the challenges of settling in America. They discuss the importance of planning for long-term care, overcoming cultural barriers, and empowering immigrant families with knowledge.

Keywords:

African immigrants, health insurance, life insurance, financial literacy, long-term care, cultural barriers, retirement planning, insurance education

Key topics:

Challenges faced by African immigrants in accessing insurance

The role of financial literacy in financial security

Understanding long-term care and its importance

Cultural barriers to insurance adoption in African communities

Strategies for affordable insurance options for all income levels

The impact of proper planning on retirement and aging

The significance of legal documents like wills and power of attorney

Addressing misconceptions about insurance in African communities

Takeaways:

African immigrants need tailored insurance education to overcome cultural misconceptions.

Starting insurance planning early is crucial for affordability and coverage.

Long-term care insurance can be a vital safety net for aging populations.

Cultural and systematic barriers require targeted community education.

Affordable policies with living benefits are accessible for all income levels.

Sound bites:

"America is a very difficult country to live in"

"You must be prepared to work and earn money"

"Long-term care needs are mostly associated with activities of daily living"

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest backgrounds

01:48 Personal stories of immigrant experiences and challenges

08:01 The realities of living and working in America as an immigrant

15:59 The importance of financial literacy and insurance awareness

23:45 Understanding long-term care and its coverage options

32:50 The impact of cultural beliefs on insurance adoption

37:13 Strategies for affordable insurance for all income levels

43:56 Adjusting insurance plans as one ages and health concerns increase

48:49 Community efforts to educate and empower African immigrants and Closing remarks and resources for further engagement

WORLD SYSTEM BUILDER

https://worldsystembuilder.com/

FINANCIAL LITERACY WORKSHOP CALENDAR

https://worldsystembuilder.com/workshopcalendar/

Happy New Year to our listeners, and welcome to Pansa Pansa Podcast. At Pansa Pansa Podcast, we continue to explore meaningful conversations that contribute to the welfare of our African immigrant communities in the diaspora. Many topics are coming your way that speaks to our needs as we continue to inspire our community.

The topics to explore include retirement planning and the logistics of old age. We will discuss mental health and mental illness and how our cultural background and stigma of mental illness hinder our ability to seek help. I am also inviting a psychiatrist who specializes in addiction and mental health, and the focus group of the conversation would be African immigrant children. The Pansa Pansa Podcast aims to continue to break the barriers on uncomfortable topics, challenge the stigma, and inspire positive changes as we work through the collective growth and well-being of our communities in the diaspora.

My first contact with Judith Folashade Ojo at OAN Organization of Advancement of Nigeria was years ago. Her pleasantness, sociable nature, and desire to connect with her Nigerian roots impressed me. Folashade came from two powerful heritages, African American and Nigeria, specifically Yoruba Heritage. Since I met her, she has always embraced her two heritage. For example, I was invited to Folashade's 40th birthday party, and the whole setup of the event blew me away. There were both Nigerian and African American families and friends at the party. I was blown away by the spread of Nigerian food, including jollof rice, Asaro, pounded yam, and amala, served with Gbegiri and Ewedu. This signature food specifically came from her father's hometown, Ibadan. Folashade dressed in a beautiful dress with a staple Yoruba headtie for this celebration.  I have always been curious about children who grow up in a multicultural or a multiracial household. The heartfelt discussion explores the tapestry of culture through Folashade's experience that binds Nigerians and African Americans.

Bio:

Judith Ojo is the Founder and CEO of HR Media & Co., a minority women-owned HR consulting firm based in Manhattan. With over a decade of experience in HR and recruiting, Judith is dedicated to providing human-centered solutions that drive organizational success. She is also the founder of LET'S TALK ALL THINGS HR®, an educational platform designed to support businesses in navigating HR challenges.

Judith has held leadership positions across nonprofit, government, and corporate sectors. In 2022, HR Media & Co. was recognized as a Top 10 Emerging L&D company by Manage HR magazine, and in 2023, Judith earned a spot in Marquis Who's Who in America.

A strong advocate for her community, Judith has been actively involved in Brooklyn, serving as the President of Soroptimist International of NYC, where she has made significant contributions to women's empowerment and community development. Folashade is a dedicated member of OAN, an Organization of Advancement of Nigeria, and the financial secretary of the organization.

On the conversation:

Folashade founded two companies before age 40, and she continues to empower younger generations coming behind. During our conversation, we talked about Folashade's multicultural background and how her two heritage influenced her approach to her work ethic and eventually launching her own company. We discuss the challenges or advantages she encountered in her business due to her two heritages. We dived into her family dynamics and how her two heritages shaped her childhood, focusing on the traditions she grew up with. As an active member of OAN, Folashade discussed her motivation in joining the organization, and she reflected on her experience within the Nigerian community. We talked about her extended family in Nigeria and America and how these connections enriched her understanding of her heritage. We briefly discussed her father's immigrant experience and the challenges he may have faced when he first arrived in America, such as discrimination, loneliness, isolation, cultural adjustment, employment, and opportunities.    

When you visit Nigeria Folashade, the Oriki below is the partial praise poetry of Ibadan that may be chant to you hopefully by professional chanter.

Ibadan people are historically known as warriors.

Oriki Ibadan

Ibadan mesi Ogo, nile Oluyole. Ilu Ogunmola, olodogbo keri loju ogun. Ilu Ibikunle alagbala jaya-jaya. Ilu Ajayi, o gbori efon se filafila. Ilu Latosa, Aare-ona kakanfo. Ibadan Omo ajoro sun. Omo a je Igbin yoo, fi ikarahun fo ri mu. Ibadan maja-maja bii tojo kin-in-ni, eyi too ja aladuugbo gbogbo logun, Ibadan ki ba ni s’ore ai mu ni lo s’ogun. Ibadan Kure! Ibadan beere ki o too wo o, ni bi olè gbe n jare olohun. B’Ibadan ti n gbonile bee lo n gba Ajoji. Eleyele lomi ti teru-tomo 'layipo n mu. Asejire lomi abumu-buwe nile Ibadan. A kii waye ki a ma larun kan lara, Ija igboro larun Ibadan.

Dr. Mojúbàolú Olúfúnké Okome is a Social Scientist and a Professor of Political Science, African & Women's Studies at Brooklyn College in NYC. I recently came across the essay written by Dr. Okome titled 'African Immigration to the United States: Dimensions of Migration, Immigration, and Exile.' The essay resonates with some of my discussions on the Pansa Pansa podcast regarding the lack of research focused on African immigrants in the U.S. African immigrants are often grouped with Latino immigrants, African Americans, and other immigrant communities of color. As a result, it overlooks the unique challenges African immigrants face in America. While there are commonalities among these groups, it is essential to recognize the distinct issues that African immigrants encounter. The lack of recognition of African immigrant's experiences underscores the need for more research, and a conversation with Dr. Okome will provide a more precise explanation of this issue, engaging us in the quest for a better understanding.

Bio

Mojúbàolú Olufúnké Okome, PhD is an International Political Economist whose regional specialization is in Africa. Educated at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, Long Island University, and Columbia University, New York, she's a Professor of Political Science at Brooklyn College, CUNY, past Women's Studies Program Director, and past Deputy Chair for Graduate Studies in Political Science at Brooklyn College.  Born in Nigeria, Mojúbàolú has consulted for clients, including the UN and Commonwealth Secretariat in London.  Her teaching interests focus on inclusive, equitable citizenship in globalization, democratization, and economic development.  Research interests include Gender, Democracy Governance, Post-Colonialism and Modernity, Development and Citizenship in Africa, Globalization, Economic and Political Transformation, and African Diaspora Studies.  She founded #BringBackOurGirlsNYC, founded and edits Ìrìnkèrindò: A Journal of African Migration. She has published seven sole-authored and edited books. The latest edited book is Para-Mallam, O., & Okome, M.O. (Eds.). (2023). Gender and Development in Nigeria: Concepts, Issues and Strategies. Kuru, Plateau State, Nigeria: NIPSS Press.

During our conversation, Dr. Okome talked about her background growing up in Lagos, Nigeria, and she detailed her college experience at the University of Ibadan when the university held the students in high esteem. She gave an account of the economic downfall in Nigeria, which resulted in many Nigerians seeking a better life in Europe and in the Western world. Dr. Okome addressed the elephant in the room, 'the brain drain.' Nigeria and other African countries continue to experience a significant brain drain, losing talented and highly educated professionals—such as herself, a political and social scientist, doctor, and engineer who could significantly contribute to the continent's development in many areas. She further explained how the IMF contributes to this economic downfall. In the writing of the essay titled 'African Immigration to the United States: Dimensions of Migration, Immigration, and Exile,' Dr. Okome shared that her personal experience as a Nigerian immigrant shaped her desire to write the essay.  During our discussion, she highlighted the assumption that African immigrants are predominantly vendors or work in hair braiding businesses. She further explained how this narrative impacts the broader African immigrant community, particularly those working as professionals or pursuing education, enlightening us on the power of narratives in shaping perceptions.

Marjorie Boafo Appiah, also known as Marjy Marj, is diverse in many areas as an author and a visionary. I recently came across Marjy's Instagram post on her publication of children's and young readers' books on immigrant experiences. The post displayed a series of children's books she wrote examining the immigrant experiences.  I immediately went to her website and was impressed by her work in the United States and globally.

Bio:

Marjorie Boafo Appiah is a multifaceted author and visionary. With an academic background spanning the Universities of Ghana, Baltimore, and Duke University, Marjy's expertise as a management consultant is underpinned by a solid foundation of diverse educational experiences. As the founder of the Innovation Group, she has created a nurturing environment where creative ideas can blossom and grow. Marjy's dedication to promoting literacy and representation in books is evident in her tireless efforts. Her list of publications, including The Shimmigrant, Sasha Goes to America Part 1, 2, & 3, The Spelling King, Same Elephant, and The Jollof Project, is a testament to her commitment.  

Marjy Marj is also the host of the Humanity Chats with Marjy Podcast, where she has conversations with guests on daily issues impacting human lives. She works with communities, schools, bookstores, and publishing houses, ensuring that young readers in the United States, United Kingdom, and Ghana can access a wide range of literature. She has been recognized both locally and regionally for her skills, dedication to community work, and advocacy.

Our conversation:

During our conversation, we briefly discussed her childhood experience growing up in Ghana and coming to the United States. We dived deeply into the African Immigrant Experience and Black Identity. We talked about the boxing of everyone into different categories, such as identity-based on skin color, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and many more. Immigrants always have to navigate these other categories that are foreign to them. We talked about how African immigrant families struggle when it comes to raising their children in America and the challenges our community faces when adapting to life in the U.S., especially as parents.  

Marji Marj's books are available worldwide at bookstores and on her website, www.marjymarj.com Her podcast, Humanity Chats with Marjy, is published on all major podcast platforms, ensuring that a global audience can access and enjoy it.

Dr. Adeodat Ilboudo, the dean of studies at Bard Early College-Manhattan, leads a tuition-free private school that offers adolescent students the opportunity to take college-level classes. This unique environment is designed to provide rigorous two-year college academic work in a supportive atmosphere, ensuring students feel reassured and confident in their educational journey. Among her various roles, she is also a College Advisor and teaches college-level biology and the Biology of Cancer.

Dr Adeodat Ilboudo holds a PhD in Biological and Health Sciences. Academic and research interests include cancer health disparities, especially in prostate cancer, the mechanisms of metastasis in solid tumors, and Hepatitis B. On her educational background, Dr. Adeodat Ilboudo holds a B.S. in Cellular Biology and Physiology from the University of Western Brittany (France) and an M.Sc in Fundamental and Applied Microbiology from the University of Western Brittany (France). She completed her PhD in Biology and Health Sciences at the University of Rennes 1 (France). She was an adjunct lecturer at the University of Rennes and a Hunter College, New York postdoctoral researcher.

I recently learned about Bard Early College. I was very excited to have her as a guest on the Pansa Pansa Podcast, sharing information about the program with listeners who may benefit from this transformative educational opportunity. Bard Early College is a beacon of hope in a world where opportunities for low-income, underrepresented, and first-generation college students are limited.

During our conversation, Dr. Ilboudo shared her experience growing up in Burkina Faso in a loving household with her parents, extended family, and community. She talked about her parents' sacrifice in sending her to study post-secondary school in France and her experience as an African student in France. Even though she experienced biases and microaggression, she would not allow such experiences to hinder her from achieving her goals. That is an inspirational story, and she stands as exemplary to many youths.  

In our discussion about Bard Early College, Dr Adeodat Ilboudo provides an overview of the program and the benefits and opportunities it offers students and their families. She talks about the eligibility criteria for the program and the application process. We discussed the academic and social support services provided to underprivileged students once they are admitted. For a student or a parent interested in learning more about Bard Early College Program, Dr. Adeodat advises the prospective families to visit the website, attend information sessions, speak to program representatives, talk to current students or alums, and, importantly, evaluate academic readiness as well as interest. For listeners, please share this podcast with those who could benefit from this information.  

To contact to Dr. Adeodat ilboudo email her at [email protected]

Over twenty years ago, a friend shared Dr. Fayemi's book Window to the Soul and I was captivated by the beautiful pictures of African children in the book. I reached out to him to buy my copy, and the rest is history, as my family has become part of his family. When I reached out to him to share his experience as a Nigerian immigrant in America, he didn't hesitate but was gladly willing to share his experience.

Summary:

The conversation on the Pansa Pansa Forum delves into the life experiences of African immigrants, particularly focusing on Dr. Fayemi's journey from his childhood in colonial Nigeria to his impactful career in medicine and photography. The discussion highlights the challenges faced during the colonial period, the importance of education, and the complexities of cultural identity in a globalized world. Dr. Fayemi shares his unique experiences studying medicine in Israel, reflecting on both the positive and negative aspects of his journey, and emphasizes the need to preserve cultural heritage amidst changing times. In this conversation, Dr. Fayemi shares his rich experiences from studying in Israel, returning to Nigeria, and eventually moving to the United States. He reflects on the cultural enrichment he gained through travel, the challenges he faced in adapting to different medical systems, and the impact of his background on his professional journey. He also discusses his passion for photography, emphasizing the importance of representation and the stories behind his images. Throughout the conversation, he offers insights on his legacy, personal growth, and the significance of cultural exchange. Dr. Fayemi also shares his experiences as an African immigrant, discussing the challenges and triumphs of raising children in a new cultural environment. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining cultural identity while integrating into American society, the value of education, and the role of discipline in parenting. Dr. Fayemi also offers insights into community engagement and the significance of companionship in later life, providing valuable advice for both immigrant parents and those approaching retirement.

1. Balancing Acts: photographs from West Africa 

2. Windows to the Soul: Photographs Celebrating African Women: The photographs celebrate the lives of ordinary children of Africa and their everyday lives, they show how African children are nurtured and reared, the games they play, their adolescence and growing up years, their education and their role within their families and immediate environment 3. Voices from Within: photographs of African children: Photographs Celebrating African Women is a book that explores and documents the realities of women's lives from Africa south of the Sahara. Divided into seven sections: Motherhood, Home, Work, Markets, Celebration, Elderhood, Beauty and Elegance Dr. Fayemi is also the founder of Ebenezer Foundation, a nonprofit organization. The foundation supports projects and programs that provide services for children who have become orphans due to their parent's death from aids in Africa.

Chapters:

02:48 Dr. Olusegun Fayemi: A Life of Impact

06:05 Childhood Memories in Colonial Nigeria

11:49 Education and Independence in Nigeria

18:00 Colonial Challenges and Educational Legacy

25:00 Cultural Identity and the Impact of Colonialism

31:47 Medical Education in Israel: A Unique Experience

43:36 Cultural Enrichment Through Travel

48:21 Returning to Nigeria: A New Perspective

51:40 Challenges and Adaptations in Medical Practice

52:10 The Decision to Move to the United States

55:25 Navigating the Medical Landscape in the U.S.

01:01:07 Reflections on Legacy and Life Choices

01:11:08 The Journey into Photography

01:27:43 The Journey to Writing About Women

01:34:13 Parenting Across Cultures

01:40:51 Navigating Discipline and Education

01:45:37 Cultural Integration and Identity

01:55:55 Community Engagement and Support

01:59:18 Advice for Aging Immigrants

Welcome back, listeners! As we dive into this new season of Pansa Pansa Podcast. l am thrilled to share with you some captivating excerpts from my recent interview with the remarkable Dr. Olusegun Fayemi.
Dr. Fayemi, an accomplished pathologist, and celebrated photographer. He has spent over four decades combining his medical expertise with his passion for documenting the social fabric of continental Africa through extraordinary lens. In this interview, he opens up about his dual career, his motivations, and the profound stories behind his stunning photographs.
Dr. Fayemi’s jouney and the insights he shared during our conversation are truly enlightening. His story is not only inspiring but offers a wealth of wisdom for immigrants parents raising their children in today’s world.
Please join me as l explore Dr. Fayemi’s insights on his experiences as a husband, a father, as a medical student in Israel and as a Nigerian immigrant in America.
These excerpts offer a glimpse into the extraordinary life and work of Dr. Fayemi, whose journey continues to inspire and educate countless individuals, including myself. Let’s listen in and discover the unique perspectives of this incredible man.